Foundation
Ambassadors
Be a leader for the next generation.
Program Prize
A lifetime designation, registration and travel support to select conferences and partnership with the Optica Foundation for Ambassador-driven initiatives.
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As emerging leaders in the optics and photonics community, Ambassadors will provide career advice, technical knowledge and mentorship with students and early career professionals in the field by supporting professional development events at meetings and engaging with their communities.
All program participants receive a lifetime Ambassador distinction visible in the member directory for their continuing efforts to serve the greater optics and photonics community.
Once selected, an ambassador begins a year of service. The following benefits are available during this period:
- Full registration and accomodations for the 2024 Level Up and FiO/LS Annual Meeting.
- A stipend to spend on Ambassador-organized initiatives.
- Registration to one Optica-managed meeting of Ambassador's choice.
- Additional support upon request to support professional development-focused events.
- Recognition in Optica publications.
Application Information
How To Apply
Applications for 2025 will be available at apply.optica.org in the Summer of 2024.
Important Dates
Opens 01 July 2024
Closes 30 September 2024
Applicant Requirements
Be a current early career or an individual member who has received a terminal degree within the last five - seven years or will receive a terminal degree by the application deadline.
Program requirements recognize and exclude career breaks from career timelines (e.g., eldercare, maternity or paternity leave).
Application Requirements
- List of questions such as:
- Describe any volunteer experience within the Society
- Describe any volunteer experience with other societies outside of the Society
- How has the Society influenced your career?
- Why do you want to serve as an Ambassador?
- What do you hope to accomplish your first year?
- CV/ resume
- Two references
2024 Recipients
Connect with this year's ambassadors for advice, networking or even just to say hello.
Past Recipients
Contributors
The ambassador program is funded through the Optica Foundation Annual Fund.
About the Endowment
The Optica Foundation Annual Fund supports the ambassador program, IONS conferences, student chapter grants, public policy trainings and other various initiatives on a yearly basis.
Selection Committee
Ambassadors are selected by the previous classes.
